5 Places In Cambodia You Have To Have On Your Travel Itinerary

Ever since Angelina Jolie swung through temple ruins in Cambodia as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider, the country has gained a lot of interest from travellers and adventure-seekers. To show you just how much there is to discover, here are our 5 must-visit destinations in Cambodia, covering all the top places you have to make sure you see.

Siem Reap Town

Small and colonial with bags of charm, this town offers a great introduction to the relaxed Cambodian lifestyle. The river front boasts stunning nature walks, and earthy coffee shops provide amazing coffee and an opportunity to socialise with the friendly locals and admire the grand architecture. For a perfect experience in Siem Reap, get up early to soak up the warmth of the sunrise over Angkor Wat, arguably Cambodia’s most famous temple. Grab a few bargains at the night market, or get a fish pedicure for pennies before glamming up and heading to Pub Street, of which the name says it all. For daytime tranquillity, head to Wat Bo Village and relax in the gardens of the oldest Buddhist temple.

Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s capital is thriving with tuk-tuk drivers and street food vendors. Weave through the city, spotting roadside pagodas nestled amongst grand French colonial houses. Why not try a local delicacy? Add deep fried tarantula to your list of new and bizarre experiences.

The Killing Fields

Just outside Phnom Penh lies one of the largest mass grave sites in Cambodia, where it is estimated over one million Cambodians were executed during the Khmer Rouge regime. The scale of the site of The Killing Fields, aligned with the tales told over your audio guide, is deeply moving and provides real insight into the country’s violent past, as well as the regime’s enduring legacy. Although extremely sad and emotional, it is highly intense and an overwhelming experience.

Angkor Archaeological Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is by far Cambodia’s, if not Southeast Asia’s, largest tourist attraction. Each year thousands of visitors make the short journey north of Siem Reap to view the magnificent remains of the capital of the Khmer Empire, dating from the ninth century. Head out before dawn to catch the sunrise behind the site’s most famous temple, Angkor Wat. Be sure to check out Angkor Thom, made famous by Lara Croft and the Tomb Raider films.

Sihanoukville

Fondly referred to as ‘Snooky’, the main reason to stop here is the beaches – beautifully sandy and not as crowded as Thailand’s. With six sandy spots to chill out on, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Less popular than Victory or Serendipity Beach, Otres Beach is usually quieter and a good spot to try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking.